Former State Prosecutor · Available 24/7

Simple Assault

New Jersey simple assault lawyer Joel Silberman defends clients facing simple assault charges in Jersey City, Hudson County, and across New Jersey.

Call 201-420-1913 Free Consultation

Hands raised across a desk at a police station, handcuffs on the wrist

24/7 Available for urgent matters

What Is Simple Assault?

Bodily Harm, or the Fear of It

When a person knowingly or negligently causes bodily harm, or puts a person in fear of bodily harm, it is called simple assault. A simple assault is a criminal offense, and includes fights or minor injuries.

The crime is governed by New Jersey Law N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1. A more serious charge under the same statute is aggravated assault, and which one is brought turns on the facts.

Call 201-420-1913 to request a confidential consultation.

N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1

What the Law Covers

A person is guilty of assault if they:

Bodily Injury

Knowingly, or recklessly cause bodily injury to another.

With a Deadly Weapon

Negligently causes injury to another with a deadly weapon.

Putting Someone in Fear

Attempts to put someone in fear of bodily injury.

What You Are Facing

Penalties for Simple Assault

A defendant convicted of simple assault may face fines up to $1000 and 6 months in jail. The defendant may also face probation and restitution.

A conviction also leaves a criminal record, which tends to outlast the sentence — it can surface in background checks long after any fine is paid.

6 months maximum jail time

$1000 maximum fine

Probation and restitution are also possible.

When It Arises at Home

Simple Assault After a Domestic Conflict

An argument between two people in a home

A simple assault charge often arises between people who live together or have a relationship, and in that setting it can run alongside a domestic violence matter and a restraining order. Each can affect the other.

If you have been charged with a simple assault after a domestic conflict, then contact a domestic violence defense attorney. NJ domestic violence defense attorney Joel Silberman has knowledge of assault laws and its penalties.

In Their Words

What Clients Say

“I cannot recommend Joel Silberman, Criminal Defense Lawyer, highly enough! As someone dealing with extreme anxiety and facing the court system for the first time, I was incredibly overwhelmed. From our first meeting, Joel’s empathetic and understanding nature made me feel like I was talking to a friend rather than just a lawyer. He managed to bring my anxiety down to zero and, most importantly, he got my misdemeanor case dismissed with a clean record. If you want a lawyer who truly cares and delivers results, there is simply no one else like him. I will forever only trust him and will recommend him to my family and friends! You can tell he breathes, eats, and sleeps thinking about law! He is extremely passionate about defending others.” – Solangy Perez

“Joel constantly comes through. He has helped me and I have sent my family and friends to him. He does whatever he can to try and win and makes you feel safe and comfortable. He is like having a guard dog by your side going into battle!.” – Jason

“In my opinion, Joel is an exceptional attorney. I have no hesitation in recommending your professional legal services and I commend you on how friendly, accessible and efficient you are.” – Rogers

“I had a wonderful experience with Joel. He was the best attorney and friend I could have ever come into contact with. Joel saved my life and my family from total and utter destruction. Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into my son’s case.” – Stephen

“Joel is an outstanding defense lawyer! Very proactive, reliable, quick and he defends his client vigorously. Not only had he saved me, but also my time and money from the endless court fees, fines and other expenses as well.”- Christopher

Disclaimer: “Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.”

Speak With Joel Silberman

Charged With Simple Assault in NJ?

Call The Law Offices of Joel Silberman, LLC at 201-420-1913 for a consultation, or email us at joel@joelsilbermanlaw.com. Consultations are free and confidential.